2014 Swine ID Information – May 15 Deadline
SAMPLE LETTER: Swine – Self Identify
DATE
TO:
Minnesota 4-H Animal Science Project Members – Swine
FROM:
STAFF MEMBER(S)
RE:
IMPORTANT Change to Animal Identification Process
Thank you for enrolling in a 4-H animal science project. We hope you find this project both challenging
and rewarding. This letter contains an important change to the animal identification process: the shift
from paper affidavits to online animal identification.
Minnesota 4-H is using its online enrollment system, 4HOnline, to record all animal identifications in
2014. 4HOnline has the capability to track animal ownership and identification data and has been used
successfully in other states. Online animal identification reduces inaccuracies and inefficiencies that
were a part of our past paper system. More information and a 4HOnline user guide can be found at
www.4-H.umn.edu/animal-ID.
The process that will be followed in 2014 is as follows:
1. 4-H Family picks up MN 4-H ear tags and tag applicator from the County Extension Office.
2. 4-H Family puts tag in animal’s ear by May 15 and completes the information ID worksheet
(enclosed).
3. 4-H Family self-enters information into 4HOnline and prints entry report for personal record. If
a breeding animal is leased, the lease agreement must be scanned and uploaded in 4-HOnline.
NOTE: Data entry must be completed by 11:59 pm, May 15, 2014; you will not be able complete
identification after that point.
4. Family returns ALL unused and/or damaged ear tags to your Extension Office.
If your family cannot self-enter the animal identification data: 4-H Family brings in completed ID
worksheet, including signature(s) to your County Extension Office before closing time on or before May
15. This ID worksheet will be kept on file in the Extension Office. Within two weeks, Support Staff or
designated volunteer enters info online into your family’s 4HOnline account. After that, your family
may view the information in 4HOnline to check for accuracy. A user guide for viewing ID’d animals in
4HOnline is available at www.4-H.umn.edu/animal-ID. The County Extension Office must be notified
of any discrepancies by DATE.
© 2012 Regents of the University of Minnesota. All rights reserved. University of Minnesota Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer. In
accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this material is available in alternative formats upon request. Direct requests to the Extension Store at
800-876-8636. Printed on recycled and recyclable paper with at least 10 percent postconsumer waste material.
Online ID’ing (4HOnline) user assistance and support



A user guide is available at www.4-H.umn.edu/animal-ID.
For assistance with the online ID process, contact your county extension staff.
In addition, an ID helpline will be available May 13-15:
Tuesday, May 13, 4 pm – 10 pm – 612-987-1059
Wednesday, May 14, 4 pm – 10 pm – 507-438-6898
Thursday, May 15, 4 pm – 12 am - 218-232-4975
On rare occasions, 4-H animals will lose the official Minnesota 4-H ear tag. If this occurs, you will need
to contact Staff person immediately at phone number so that the tag can be verified and replaced. Do
not wait until county fair if this occurs.
Two additional pieces of project information are included in this mailing for your information:
● AnSci Updates for 2014 for unique changes and information in each animal science project area.
● 2014 Swine Information Sheet compiled by the 4-H State Fair Swine Committee and includes
processes, procedures and information unique to the Swine project at the Minnesota State Fair.
Livestock Quality Assurance & Ethics: Minnesota 4-H supports livestock quality assurance and
animal science ethics. The State policy is that youth participating in the State Fair, as a livestock
exhibitor, must have completed their age appropriate Level of Livestock Quality Assurance and Ethics
(LQA&E) training. 4-Hers certified in the Beef and/or Pork Quality Assurance must also take the Ethics
portion of the 4-H training. Certification is good for three fair seasons. Additional information
concerning any LQA&E training in our area will be listed in upcoming 4-H newsletters or can be found
at www.4-H.umn.edu/projects/animal-science/lqae.
If you have any questions about the change to online animal identification or anything else in this letter,
please contact NAME at PHONE, EMAIL.